13 Off The Beaten Path Illinois Towns
While Chicago is the first place that often comes to mind when you think of Illinois, the state has several small towns, from those with over 40,000 population, like Elmhurst, to small-populated towns with just over 900 residents, like Nauvoo. These towns are unique destinations with different landmarks that define them, like the former home of President Ulysses in Galena, the Lincoln/Stephen Douglas Debate site in Ottawa, and the Elmhurst Art Museum in Elmhurst.
Experience everything in nature, from scenic greeneries, waterfronts, and forests, including Fabyan Forest Preserve, the Galena River, and the riverfront view at Pere Marquette State Park in Grafton. Enjoy Woodstock's art collections, entertainment, and festivals, explore world record-breaking landmarks in Casey, such as the world’s largest Rocking Chair and Wind Chime, and go on historic tours into the 1800s in Nauvoo. There is something for everyone in Illinois, so find yours in these 13 off-the-beaten-paths of Illinois.
Galena
Galena is in Northwest Illinois, known for its 19th-century architecture and great small-town appeal. It can be found on the Galena River, close to the Mississippi River. It became a go-to destination in the 1800s after lead was discovered in the area, which explains its name origin, Galena, meaning lead sulfide in Latin. The charming town is packed with various landmarks and places featured on the National Register of Historic Places, including the former home of President Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th American president.
The town has done excellently in preserving its history with top attractions like the Dowling House, the oldest building in Galena, built by John Dowling in 1826. You can also tour with Amelia's Galena Ghost Tours, visit the iconic Galena and US Grant Museum, or experience the Great Galena balloon race.
Nauvoo
Nauvoo, a small city in Hancock County, Illinois, is sure to captivate your heart with its vibrant history and culture represented by various buildings, arts, and artifacts. The pretty town housed the Mormon Church in the 1840s, seeking refuge in the city until the death of the founder, Joseph Smith, causing Mormon leaders to flee the city. Experience history in Nauvoo with Historic Nauvoo, a trip down memory lane, or visit the Nauvoo Temple and the Joseph Smith Historic Site.
Other museums and historic sites include Brigham Young Home, Rheinberger House Museum, Weld House Museum, and Heber C. Kimball Home. At Nauvoo, history never ends, but there is more to explore than just that. You can visit art galleries, like Bedard Fine Art and Havenlight Fine Art Nauvoo, or have fun at the Nauvoo State Park on the banks of the Mississippi River.
Galesburg
This enchanting and friendly town in Knox County, Illinois, holds the perfect getaway plans for you with a dose of culture and history in its museums and theaters: the Galesburg Railroad Museum, Carl Sandburg State Historic Site, Orpheum Theatre, and Prairie Players Civic Theatre. You will experience the town's exciting history, musical performances, live actions, and a place for your kids to have fun and learn at the Discovery Depot Children's Museum.
Taste the town's brews and spirits at local wineries and breweries, specifically the Iron Spike Brewing Company, La Cantinita, and Reserve Artisan Ales. What's a trip without a shopping experience? Make your way to Galesburg's shopping areas, including Seminary Street, antique shops, the downtown district, and the farmer's market. You can collect art, antiques, gifts, wears, and more at the Attic Antiques, Four Seasons, and Stray Cat Art.
Grafton
One of the small riverside towns and the oldest city in Jersey County is Grafton. Grafton is where you go when seeking a calming and soothing getaway at the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. Dive into water adventures with the Hakuna Matata river boat or travel on the Grafton Ferry, experiencing the town's vibrant history and calming waters.
You can visit one of Grafton's riverfront parks, particularly the Pere Marquette State Park, experiencing nature and scenic landmarks while engaging in recreational activities like picnicking, biking, hiking, and horseback riding. Go bird watching or fruit picking at Eckert's farm. Finish with the town's irresistible food scene at local restaurants, such as The Loading Dock, Grafton Oyster Bar, or the Terrace at Aerie's Resort.
Elmhurst
Based in DuPage and Cook County, Elmhurst is a suburb of Chicago with a vibrant community and rich history. Begin your journey by learning a little about the town's heritage at museums through arts and monuments, especially the Elmhurst Art Museum, the Niebuhr Monument, and the Sesquicentennial Clock. Witness the best of arts and culture with performing arts at Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra, Elmhurst Choral Union, Elmhurst Children's Theatre, and GreenMan Theatre Troupe.
Loosen up a little and indulge in outdoor recreational activities like picnicking and biking with family at Berens Park, Conrad Fischer Park, Crescent Park, and Centennial Park. Have a full-day meal at the various excellent restaurants in Elmhurst, including Angelo's Ristorante, Bambu Thai Cuisine, Culver's of Elmhurst, and Fry the Coop.
Woodstock
This town is a perfect tourist center, recognized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and regarded as a Preserve America Community by the White House. The Historic Woodstock Square features 19th-century buildings and a bustling shopping area. Walk through the different shops, discovering the town's special hand-crafted pottery, unique arts, apparel, collectibles, and gifts at Roscoe Woodstock Antique Mall, Needful Things Shop, Anime & Things, and more.
Explore history at Woodstock Square Historic District and visit landmarks, including the George Stickney House or Main Street Pedway. You may also spend time on farms, fruit picking, and bird-watching at All Seasons Orchard. One of the most exciting things about Woodstock is its various festivals hosted all year round, including Summer Band Concerts and Groundhog Days, with unique presentations, music, and entertainment.
Greenville
With a small population of over 6,000 and a lively community, Greenville attracts visitors seeking a relaxing getaway spiced up with adventure. Kick off your journey with Bond County Museum, American Farm Heritage Museum, and DeMoulin Museum, getting a little context about the town's bustling life. Visit the Richard W. Bock Sculpture Museum and Hill's Fort to witness fine art and exhibits with backstories. Then, take skydiving off your bucket list with an exhilarating experience at Gateway Skydiving Center. Experience art and performances at the Globe Theater.
You can also go shopping for unique collectibles, crafts, and antiques at Third Street Market and Marcoot Jersey Creamery. Do not miss one of the best parts of visiting this town, Greenville's festivals and events, including Halloweenville, Apple Day, Pokey Fest Craft Festival, and more.
Oregon
Oregon, Illinois, a small town with an exciting story and breathtaking scenery, sits on the banks of the Rock River. It was named by the Potawatomi and Winnebago Indian Tribes as "Oregon," meaning "River of the West." A perfect day in Oregon begins with nature exploration and adventure through one of the town's preserves and trails, namely, Joe Stengel Trail, Bald Hill Prairie Preserve, Nachusa Bison/John Deere Loop, and Byron Forest Preserve.
Visit parks with picturesque landscapes, such as the Carnation Park, Castle Rock State Park, and Fairground Park. Find out about this beautiful town's history through sites, buildings, and art collections, including the Chana School Museum Foundation, Coliseum Museum, Eagles Nest Art Colony, and Ogle County Historical Society & Ruby Nash Museum. There are plenty of things to do here, but ensure you stop to taste local brews at Cork & Tap and grab a bite at restaurants like Hector's Cocina.
Ottawa
It is always easy to find attractions in this scenic small town in LaSalle County, Ottawa. From historic sites to local shops, you can check out the Abraham Lincoln/Stephen Douglas Debate site, where Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas held their first Senatorial Debate. Spend time with nature at Dayton Bluffs Preserve or the Fox River Aqueduct.
Drive through the Illinois River Road flanked by greeneries and visit parks such as Kiwanis Park, Allen Park, and Catlin Park, offering horseback riding, biking, hiking, and camping opportunities. Take a relaxing tour through art galleries, including Open Space Art Gallery and Studios, or join a golf tournament at Pine Hills Golf Club.
La Salle
LaSalle is where you go when seeking a place to wander off, have fun, and experience nature. Get lost in history at the Hegeler Carus Mansion, with views, arts, and exhibits that will leave you bewildered. The best scenic view of nature lies in the Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail, where you can hike and bike through the paths.
Find playground areas, soccer fields, and camping sites at the LaSalle Rotary Park and revel in the natural feel at Matthiessen State Park with waterfalls, a boardwalk, beautiful forests, and rocks. Visit bars and clubs like Club 55 and the Camden Bar and Lounge. Remember to take a treasure-seeking tour to LaSalle's specialty and gift shops, including Petals by Peyton, Country Cottage Inc., and She & the Stork.
Casey
One of the most popular attractions in Casey is the World's Largest Rocking Chair, which is displayed in the heart of downtown, but there are other supersized attractions in this town. You will find the World's largest Wind Chime, Golf Tree, Pitchfork, Wooden Shoes, Mailbox, Gavel, Truck Key, Barbershop Pole, Teeter Totter, Golf Driver, and Swizzle Spoon.
But that's not all. The unique town of Casey houses other big things too, including big antlers, an anvil, a bat, a birdcage, knitting needles, a mouse trap, a rocking horse, and more. This town is a small-big town aiming at breaking big records, so spend a day around town looking for the biggest things you can find.
Princeton
Princeton is a small satellite town for Chicago and the Quad Cities in Bureau County, housing various museums and landmarks. Begin your journey here with a historical tour through the Lovejoy Homestead, Bureau County Soldiers and Sailors Monument, or Bureau County Historical Society Museum and Library. Visit picturesque landmarks and points of interest surrounded by pristine greenery like the Red Covered Bridge and Captain Swift Covered Bridge.
Take a relaxing walk in the Zearing Park and Soldiers and Sailors, or be part of the town's entertainment scene at Apollo Theater. Explore gifts, home decor, and specialty shops at Meadow's Home Décor & Gifts, The Princeton Closet, Real Furniture, and more. Check out the Pin Splitter Lanes bowling alley for an awesome time bowling with friends or family.
Geneva
Geneva is a home for nature lovers. Take a trip to the Fabyan Forest preserve, which offers boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities, a museum, and a historic windmill. Visit parks such as Island Park, Peck Farm Park, and Wheeler Park for picnic areas and recreational activities.
Explore more history museums, including the Geneva History Museum, Friends of the Viking Ship, and the Central Geneva Historic District. You'll find a host of things to take back home besides the iconic, memorable feeling in specialty and gift shops such as the Little Traveler and Kernel's Gourmet Popcorn & More. End your day searching for locally-grown produce at Windy Acres or locally-made brews at Art History Brewing.
Illinois is home to some of America's most beautiful small towns, all offering unique experiences to tourists and visitors. Depending on what you seek, you will get to explore the historic site, beautiful landmarks, natural preserves, parks, arts and culture, and entertainment spanning small towns, including Galena, Woodstock, Galesburg, Princeton, LaSalle, and more. Drawn to the rich history of Galena, the bustling city life of Greenville, the natural wonders of LaSalle, the large artifacts in Casey, and adventures in Grafton, you will want to spend at least a few days exploring these off-the-beaten-path towns.
